Myth Busting!

Hello fitness fans!

Ya know, this whole being healthy thing can be really hard. Not just because of the time, effort and discipline it requires but also because there is so much bad information out there. That's why we're doing some myth busting!

Can resistance training replace a cardio workout? That’s the question we set out to answer with the help of one of our personal trainers. “Even though the heart rate is elevated when you’re doing strength training it’s different than when your heart rate is elevated with cardio because of stroke volume,” says Angie Gallagher. If you’re like us, we looked at her like she was speaking a foreign language.

Simply put “stroke volume” is the amount of blood pumped by the heart each time it beats. The more cardio you do – the stronger and more efficient your heart becomes, pumping more blood and carrying more oxygen through your body.

“If it’s easy you’re probably spinning your wheels and wasting your time,” Gallagher says with a grin. We know her well enough to know that none of her workouts are easy. In part because she almost always has us doing both cardio and resistance. “Women tend to love their cardio, men love their strength training – for us to be healthy and overall fit we really have to have both elements.”

That’s because while lifting doesn’t have the same benefits as cardio, it’s important in other ways … making your muscles and bones stronger and preventing injuries. If you add in some core moves and a little stretching the whole body sees some big benefits.

“It can be really hard and be a lot of fun,” Angie insists, “that’s what I try to show people… it should be empowering and fun.”

Angie is offering a special two week “body blast” right now – perfect for the holidays!

On January 2nd, her new studio opens. Get details by dropping her a line at fitnesswithangie@gmail.com

Have a healthy week!
EEK
Erin.Kiernan@whotv.com